Logan (2017)

Last updated:
September 23, 2024

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Logan is a 2017 American superhero film directed by James Mangold, starring Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, and Dafne Keen. The film is the tenth installment in the X-Men film series and loosely based on the “Old Man Logan” comic series by Mark Millar and Steve McNiven. Set in a dystopian future where mutants are nearly extinct, the film follows an aging Wolverine (Logan) and a sick Professor X who embark on a final adventure to save a young mutant named Laura.

The Story Unfolds

Logan’s Struggle

In 2029, Logan (Hugh Jackman), whose healing powers are dwindling, works as a chauffeur to support himself and a deteriorating Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart), who is suffering from a neurodegenerative disease. They live in hiding near the Mexican border, with Logan attempting to save enough money to buy a boat for a peaceful life away from society.

The Encounter with Laura

Logan’s life takes a drastic turn when he is approached by Gabriela, a nurse who worked at a facility that was experimenting on children to create new mutants. She begs Logan to help her and a young girl named Laura (Dafne Keen), who is later revealed to be Logan’s biological daughter, created from his DNA. Gabriela is killed, and Logan reluctantly agrees to help Laura after Charles convinces him.

The Climax and Resolution

The Journey to Eden

Logan, Charles, and Laura set out to find Eden, a supposed safe haven for mutants in North Dakota. Along the way, they bond as a makeshift family, and Logan learns more about Laura’s origins and the dangers they face from the sinister Reavers, led by Donald Pierce (Boyd Holbrook), and Dr. Zander Rice (Richard E. Grant), who aims to recapture Laura and the other mutant children.

The Final Stand

The journey culminates in a violent confrontation as the Reavers close in on the group. Charles is tragically killed by X-24, a younger, more ruthless clone of Logan created by Dr. Rice. In the final battle, Logan, using a serum that temporarily boosts his healing factor, fights X-24 but is mortally wounded. Laura kills X-24 and, with the help of other young mutants, escapes to Eden. Logan dies in Laura’s arms, finally finding peace and redemption.

The Conclusion

Legacy and Moving Forward

The film ends with Laura and the other young mutants heading toward the Canadian border, seeking a new beginning. Laura gives Logan a heartfelt farewell, marking his grave with an “X” as a tribute to the X-Men and the legacy Logan leaves behind.

Movie Ending

Logan concludes with the death of Wolverine after a brutal fight with X-24. Laura, who has grown attached to Logan, honors his legacy. The young mutants move towards a hopeful future, symbolizing the continuation of the fight for mutantkind.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Logan.

Type of Movie

Logan is a superhero film that combines elements of drama, action, and Western genres, focusing on themes of aging, redemption, and the enduring struggle for freedom and justice.

Cast

Hugh Jackman as Logan / Wolverine
Patrick Stewart as Charles Xavier / Professor X
Dafne Keen as Laura / X-23
Boyd Holbrook as Donald Pierce
Richard E. Grant as Dr. Zander Rice
Stephen Merchant as Caliban

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Marco Beltrami, whose music enhances the emotional depth and intense action sequences of the narrative.

Filming Locations

Logan was filmed in various locations, including:

New Mexico: For the desert and rural settings.
Louisiana: For scenes involving the industrial and urban environments.
Mississippi: For additional landscape shots.

Awards and Nominations

Logan received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:

Academy Awards: Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama (Hugh Jackman).
BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Special Visual Effects.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Hugh Jackman’s final performance as Wolverine was widely praised, marking the end of his 17-year portrayal of the character.
Dafne Keen’s portrayal of Laura/X-23 received acclaim for her intense and emotive performance.
The film’s R-rating allowed for a more mature and violent depiction of Wolverine, aligning with the darker tone of the story.

Inspirations and References

Logan draws inspiration from the “Old Man Logan” comic series and classic Westerns, particularly in its themes of redemption and the lone hero’s journey. The film also reflects broader themes of aging, mortality, and the legacy left behind by heroes.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Logan closely follows James Mangold’s vision. Some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The opening fight scene showcasing Logan’s brutal combat skills.
Logan, Charles, and Laura’s road trip, highlighting their evolving relationship.
The farmhouse scene, where Charles expresses his regrets and hopes.
The final battle against the Reavers and X-24.
Logan’s emotional death and Laura’s tribute.

Iconic Quotes

“She’s like you. Very much like you.” – Charles Xavier
“You still have time.” – Charles Xavier
“Don’t be what they made you.” – Logan
“So, this is what it feels like.” – Logan

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film includes subtle references to past X-Men films and comic book lore, such as the appearance of X-Men comic books within the story.
The cross at Logan’s grave being turned into an “X” symbolizes his identity as an X-Man and the legacy he leaves behind.

Trivia

The film’s budget was approximately $97 million, and it grossed over $619 million worldwide.
Logan was the first live-action superhero film to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Hugh Jackman took a pay cut to ensure the film received an R-rating, allowing for a more authentic portrayal of the character’s brutality.

Why Watch?

Logan offers a powerful and emotionally resonant story about the end of an era, featuring standout performances, particularly by Hugh Jackman and Dafne Keen, and masterful direction by James Mangold. Its blend of intense action, deep character development, and poignant themes makes it a must-watch for fans of superhero films and dramatic narratives.